January 26, 1969: Work is done on “Dig It” and “The Long and Winding Road,” plus Harrison’s “Isn’t It a Pity” which will eventually appear on his 1970 triple album All Things Must Pass. During the day it is also decided that they will record a live performance on the roof of the Apple building.
For the first time in almost a year, The Beatles spent both days of a weekend Recording, inspired more by pragmatic than artistic reasons (Ringo’s work on “The Magic Christian” would begin in eight days and only a handful of songs were up to par). Paul’s girlfriend Linda Eastman and her six year old daughter Heather attend the session, and Billy Preston rejoins the others after a few days absence.
On this lazy Sunday, their work is almost totally focused on the two McCartney ballads “Let It Be” and “The Long and Winding Road.” This is fine with John, because, as on the 23rd, he doesn’t really want to sing in order to save his voice.
In between rehearsals and the recording of these two songs, a number of energetic oldies are recorded, as well as a unique pass at “Dig It.” While neither of two ballads is finished, the day’s final pass at “The Long and Winding Road” is good enough to ultimately make it onto the Let It Be album.
